North Bergen S.T.E.A.M. Academy Shines at STEM Showcase in Trenton

North Bergen’s S.T.E.A.M. Academy made a strong impression at the recent New Jersey STEM Pathways Network Showcase held in Trenton. The event celebrated STEM Month, a holiday recognized by the legislature in March, and gave STEM organizations from across the state the opportunity to showcase their work within New Jersey’s STEM pipeline. Sixth-grade students Emerald Tse and Samantha Nunez, along with their teacher Heather Ricco, presented their work with chromatography and electrophoresis to elected officials from across the state, including North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco.

The work of the students and the school was lauded by Superintendent Dr. George Solter and Mayor Sacco. “Mrs. Ricco and her students, Emerald and Samantha, represented the S.T.E.A.M. Academy and the Township of North Bergen with poise, grace, and extreme brilliance,” said Dr. Solter. “Everyone who stopped by their booth could not believe they were only in 6th grade- the science work they did was on the High School level.”

Mayor Sacco was similarly impressed, adding that “Having STEM-focused learning opportunities in our Township is critical to preparing our youth to thrive and succeed in our current tech age, and these students proved why these investments are well worthwhile.”

The showcase was a great opportunity for North Bergen’s S.T.E.A.M. Academy to demonstrate the advanced and focused course curriculum that allows students to immerse themselves and hone their interests in STEM-based academia. The school’s success is a testament to the importance of STEM education and the benefits it can provide to students and communities.